The British Royal Family have always been associated with extravagance and prestige, which is expected given their unique position in society.

During their individual reigns, those who have commanded the British throne have inherited jewels, golden carriages, castles, priceless pieces of art, and fine china, helping to solidify them as one of the most influential and wealthy families in the world.

Then there are the events that have been held in their honor, that boast star-studded guest lists that make the Oscars ceremony look positively Z-list. As if that wasn't enough, the ceremonies and celebrations they host get international recognition, from Royal Weddings to Trooping of the Colour.

Yet, despite all this pomp and pageantry, the British Royal Family are actually incredibly ordinary. Behind the red velvet and ermine cloaks and underneath the crowns and tiaras, they are just like you and me. For example, their Christmas traditions are pretty relatable.

Talking to TODAY Food, former royal chef, Darren McGrady revealed that the Royals actually enjoy simple yet traditional dishes at Christmas. McGrady worked for the Royal Family for 15 years, in both the Queen's household and Princess Diana's, before moving to Texas to work for an American family.

In his latest book, The Royal Chef at Home: Easy Seasonal Entertaining, McGrady offers rare insight into the lives of the Royal Family during the festive period.

He notes that whilst the Royals were partial to finer delicacies such as Beef Bourguignon, they also helped themselves to Brussels sprouts, stews, bubble and squeak, and apple pie.

"The Balmoral Castle gardens were amazing and provided fresh incredible produce to the kitchens daily," said McGrady, who tried to incorporate as much of this produce as possible into the dishes he prepared.

One extravagance that the Queen did indulge in during McGrady's time in her kitchen was shrimp. "At Balmoral Castle, the Queen would receive a delivery of Morecambe Bay shrimp each week to be served at afternoon tea with hot crusty Melba toast, so the spicy shrimp butter would melt into the toast," says McGrady. "[It's the] ultimate comfort food after a chilly day in the hills."

Of course, unlike most regular families around the world, the Royal Family doesn't have to concern themselves with the actual cooking of their meal. Nor do they have to decorate their table, pour their own drinks or wrap their own gifts!

However, it's still nice to know that whilst you chow down on your roast potatoes and turkey, the Queen is also tucking into the same meal at her own table, and she undoubtedly feeds the leftovers to her beloved corgis!